Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Democratic Sen. William Monning’s bill proposed Thursday would require the warning on the front of all beverage containers with added sweeteners that have 75 or more calories in every 12 ounces. The label would read: "STATE OF CALIFORNIA SAFETY WARNING: Drinking beverages with added sugar(s) contributes to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay."

Monning says there is overwhelming research showing the link between sugary drinks and those health problems, adding that the wording was developed by a national panel of nutrition and public health experts.

"When the science is this conclusive, the state of California has a responsibility to take steps to protect consumers," Monning said in a press release. "As with tobacco and alcohol warnings, this legislation will give Californians essential information they need to make healthier choices." [emphasis mine]

Just curious... is there anyone, anywhere, who actually thinks tobacco, alcohol, and/or sugar are actually healthy choices? Is anyone seriously making this argument? Will anyone pick up a case of Pepsi, see the warning, go "this has sugar? Sugar is bad for me? Well! I'm just putting this back! Thank you for protecting me, State of California!"

I can promise you that anyone who doesn't already know that sugar is not the healthiest choice... doesn't care. So the label won't change their behavior.

And anyone that DOES care... already knows, and is already making their choices without the label's help.